Miami Marlins Blanked by Atlanta Braves in Home Opener, 2-0

Marlins Park opened its gates (and its roof) for the first time to watch Kevin Slowey and company face off against NL East rivals, the Atlanta Braves. In front of a reported 34,439 in attendance, Slowey lasted 7.0 innings, the longest start for a Marlin this season.

Polanco accounted for one of the Marlins two hits.

Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

The Miami bats didn’t show up against Paul Maholm. Maholm also went 7.0 innings, allowing one hit and striking out seven. Justin Upton put on a clinic, compiling four hits, including his league-leading sixth home run. Craig Kimbrel closed out the game after putting runners on the corners, final score 2-0 Braves.

The Marlins first hit came in the 3^rd, with a Placido Polanco single. Miami’s next hit didn’t come until the 9^th inning, with Rob Brantly managing a single off Kimbrel. Ironically, Miami’s best chance to score came against Kimbrel, after a Giancarlo Stanton worked his third walk of the night to lead off. Greg Dobbs grounded out, but beat out the 4-6-3 double play. Brantly’s single moved pinch-runner Chris Valaika to third. With two outs, Adeiny Hechavarria struck out swinging through a Kimbrel fastball.

Braves left fielder Justin Upton accounted for both of Atlanta’s runs, scoring on a Dan Uggla ground out in the 4^th inning. In his next at-bat, Upton sent a solo-shot deep into the left field stands of Marlins Park, the first homer in the stadium for 2013.

Kevin Slowey’s start was encouraging, allowing two runs on six hits. Unfortunately, the Miami batters weren’t on base long enough to score a run. The loss puts the Marlins at 1-6 on the season.

Tomorrow the Marlins send Wade LeBlanc to the hill, facing off against Kris Medlen. The game is scheduled for 7:10 ET.